International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day are coming up this month. Throughout March, we are celebrating our incredible #NELFTWomen and highlighting the support and opportunities available to them.

Below is an interview with Selina Douglas, Executive Director of Partnerships here at NELFT:

Why do you think it is important to celebrate International Women's Day?

It’s important to recognise the contribution women make to society as sometimes it goes unnoticed. Why can’t women have a day?

Have you faced any barriers in your career due to being a woman? If so, how did you overcome them?

I think before covid there was still cultural of first one in the office and last to leave and when you are a carer and I used to find that a real barrier. When I became more senior, I would make sure that wasn’t the culture I wanted to lead.

What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?

To be your genuine self – I have found that especially valuable.

How can we encourage more women to pursue senior leadership roles in their career?

Be flexible, give them opportunities to shine, encouragement and time.

What is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers?

Don’t rush to do everything, enjoy yourself and sometimes side steps are a great idea. And remember you can’t do everything!

Is there anyone that inspires you in your career?

My old boss Marian Harrington – she was fab.

What are you most proud of?

My family.

Why do you think diversity in the workplace is so important?

We can’t deliver services for a diverse community if we don’t understand their experiences. That’s so important to our populations.

What did you dream of doing when you were a little girl?

I wanted to a detective!

If you could have dinner with three inspirational women, dead or alive, who would they be and why?

Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey and Josephine Baker